There are many services out there that suggest they have the keys to the hidden job market. I am always dying to ask them: If it's hidden, how come they know where it is?
The truth is, we all have access to the "hidden" job market. It simply means employing a proactive job search strategy. It means not waiting until advertised positions appear to go after the job, and instead creating those job opportunities for yourself.
How do you do that?
- Research and identify at least ten to twenty companies that normally hire professionals with your background and approach the senior manager with a broadcast letter or a Q letter to solicit an informational interview.
- Take advantage of the Internet to see who is hiring and follow the above strategy remember, do not apply online send your resume in directly to the company in 9 x 11 envelope.
- Develop a job proposal demonstrating how you can add value to the companys operations, bottom-line performance, and competitive advantage. Show them what they would miss out if they did NOT hire you.
- Maximize online social networks like LinkedIn to make warm contact with strong leads who may be connected to your former colleagues, classmates, friends, family you get the idea. Somebody always knows somebody who know somebody
- Start attending regular networking/industry events and conferences to make face time with key players who can provide strategic advice or give you referrals.
Yes, these strategies really work one of my best friends got a new position within two months after sending in resumes directly to companies. She missed the application deadline for her top choice company and still landed an interview and secured an offer with them.
It really works - try it!
About the author:
Abby M. Locke is a career marketing architect, brand leadership coach, master resume write and the founder of the Beyond Glass Ceilings. She works with professional women to help them overcome job search obstacles and achieve career mastery in highly competitive, crowded marketplaces.
